Judicial Clerkships

A post-graduate judicial clerkship is a one- or two-year position working with a federal or state judge. For those interested in litigation, a clerkship provides a unique opportunity to see first-hand how the judiciary functions; for those not interested in litigation, a clerkship is still a great opportunity to sharpen research, writing, and legal analysis skills. It is an intense experience, filled with substantial legal research and writing assignments, and can be an important career credential that opens doors in the future.

Look to grades and law journal membership when choosing whom to interview

Prefer applicants who have had experience working for a judge as a judicial intern while in law school

Hire clerks during the early Fall of a student’s last year of law school

The Career Services Office is ready to assist students through every aspect of the clerkship application process, well before Fall hiring begins:

Our Clerkship Program in the spring semester of a student’s second year (or third part-time year) features both faculty members and graduating students who both served as clerks describe the experience and application process

Over the summer, CSO works one-on-one with students interested in clerkships to ensure that resumes and cover letters are in top shape, faculty recommendations are secured, and that students are mindful or the deadlines in early Fall

How to Apply

The vast majority of federal judges require that applications be submitted online through the OSCAR system. Application materials include a cover letter, resume, transcript, writing sample, and two or three letters of recommendation by faculty members or other individuals who know the quality of your written work. The deadline to upload your materials is typically Labor Day of your final year of law school.

Most state clerkship applications are submitted through the mail, but the materials required are the same as those for federal clerkships. Most state clerkship deadlines are in the late summer and early Fall of a student’s final year in law school. To review the requirements of all state court clerkships nationwide, click here. For ID and password information, email us or call 631.761.7030.